Skill Development
Lifelong learning of new skills is an essential part of adult growth and development. However, there are few opportunities for learning once an individual with disabilities leaves high school. In fact, only 11% enroll in two to four year colleges or vocational/technical programs upon graduation from high school compared to 67% of their non-disabled peers. What’s more, Illinois high schools focus on vocational or academic training more than independent living skill training. This may lead you to a variety of questions:

• What opportunities are there for post-secondary education programs that support individuals with disabilities?
• What should I look for in a post-secondary program for individuals with disabilities?
• What should the goals be of a post-secondary program for individuals with disabilities? Vocational? Academic? Social? Self development?
• Where can my loved one continue to learn and grow after high school?
• What community classes or education options are available for my child or sibling with a disability?
• What skills will my child or sibling with a disability need to learn to live away from home?
• How will he or she learn these skills or how will he or she obtain the supports that he or she needs?
• How will I know if my son, daughter, or sibling with a disability has the ability to acquire these skills?
• Where can my child, brother, or sister with a disability learn these skills?

If you have any of these questions, we have the programs and services that can help you find the answers, including:

• What’s Next? Consultations
• Full-Life Future Planning
• Independent Living Readiness Inventory
• VIP Academy
• Independent Living Skills Curriculum